Some concerned Nigerians have expressed dismay over the Federal Government’s prioritization of a new national anthem amidst the country’s myriad challenges.

A businessman, Daniel Precious, who operates in Benue State, in a chat with Kristina Reports on Friday, May 30, 2024, criticized the move, labeling it as a diversion from pressing issues and a symbol of the failed governance system.

“Everything happening in Nigeria is as a result of the failed system of government. You are not even bringing a newly composed one, you are giving us an old anthem, you took us backwards.

“So, are we going forward or are we going backwards? This is not something we need at the moment, even if it’s necessary, it shouldn’t be the old one.”

Similarly, an elderly woman, who only identified herself as Nene, questioned the rationale behind introducing a new anthem when basic needs like food remain unmet.

“I have not eaten enough to satisfy me; you are now telling me to learn another song. I have not even learnt the old one. Look for a way we can fight against poverty, you are telling us to learn a song, did I go to school”.

Samuel Peace highlighted the country’s widespread suffering and emphasized the need for solutions to poverty and systemic issues rather than symbolic changes.

“Every sector, the economic, socio-political sector of the nation amongst others are suffering, bringing up a new anthem is not a reasonable thing.

“It’s not solving the problem Nigeria is facing, maybe he has a reason for this. Because the problem we’re facing is not a national anthem problem. The situation in the country is an eye sore. People are suffering, how to alleviate poverty should be a concern”.